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Princess Cruise Line

MS Coral Princess

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Reviewed by: Matt Sudders
# previous cruises: 10 to 20
Date of Trip: December 14, 2005
Itinerary: Caribbean

My first cruise on princess was everything I expected, decent food, an acceptable programme, superb organisation, lovely staff and generally middle of the road prices. Coupled with a rather boring decor style and you've about got princess pegged.

Coral Princess has Princess' usual public areas. She also has the 'Universe lounge' which is part theatre, part cinema, part lounge. Unique to her and her sister are the Bayou cafe (new Orleans style supplementary restaurant). All public areas are trademark princess with wood panelling, simple artwork (flower vases).

Generally good if robotic. Table mates who had been on other princess cruises could predict forthcoming menus and there was nothing new for them.

Basic outside cabin was very nice, unusual arrangement with a walk in wardrobe which means no in cabin seating area, but the size was adequate. Location aft on Plaza deck was handy for services but some vibration could be felt during high speed running.

4 shows - Curtain up, Broadway, Da Beat and Dance!. The first 3 were amateurish and poor the latter one of the best I've seen on a ship (saved until last). In addition there were headline acts including trumpeter, magician, singer and impressionist. All the usual 'direct from vegas' stuff. The daily programme includes scholarship " sea programme which is basically computer lessons and some 'stress management' seminar guru for this particular cruise.

Princess have the most extensive shore excursion package I've ever seen - and its all superbly organised. Book online before the cruise for the best trips. A special note to those going to Panama, you can only disembark the ship if on a princess excursion.

A wide range of passengers - this is entry level cruising, but without the 'party boat' atmosphere of other lines. A genteel set with a lot of repeat cruisers. Plenty of older passengers but not overwhelmingly so.